Perinatal Genetics

Our experienced Perinatal Genetics team is here to give you the information and support you need to make informed decisions for your family and pregnancy. Our genetic counselors can help you understand:

• Prenatal screening options and results
• How your family’s health history might affect your baby
• Any pregnancy history or exposures that concern you

We can also direct you to any additional resources your family may need.
 
Our counselors are available at all five Perinatal Diagnostic Center locations.
 

How to Meet with a Genetic Counselor

Please ask your obstetrician for a referral to any of our services.
 

Which Women Go to Perinatal Genetics

A woman may be referred to Perinatal Genetics to discuss:

• Prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing options
• Genetic issues associated with advanced maternal age
• A positive result from the State of California Prenatal Screening Program
• Family history of physical abnormality or a known chromosomal, metabolic or genetic condition
• Multiple miscarriages
• Marriage between relatives (consanguinity)
• Problems diagnosed by ultrasound 
• Testing for a specific genetic disorder
• Exposure to teratogens (substances which may cause fetal defects). These include some drugs or medications, infections, alcohol, toxins and chemotherapy.

We also provide preconception genetic counseling if you have a family history of genetic problems.
 

Your Perinatal Genetics Appointment

During your counseling appointment, we will speak with you about testing options for your pregnancy based on your ethnicity and family history, including testing for:

• Down syndrome and other chromosome disorders
• Screening based on ethnic background, including cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and Tay Sachs disease 
• Diseases you may be concerned about due to family history
• Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) 

Please bring the following items to your Perinatal Genetics appointment:

• Insurance card
• Photo ID 
• List of any medications you are taking
• A completed Genetic Counseling questionnaire
  • English (PDF)
  • Spanish (PDF)

Center for Fetal and Maternal Health

Our genetic counselors work closely with Center for Fetal and Maternal Health families whose pregnancies are being tested for or have confirmed health problems. They help families understand their baby’s condition and provide support to help the family make the best decisions possible for their baby.
 
 

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